Welcome to our “how to reset an air conditioner unit” guide.

Before you search for “best AC repair near me”, have you thought of trying to reset your HVAC system?

If you have performance issues with your computer or phone, the first thing that comes to your mind is to reset or restart it.

There are several instances where your air conditioning unit too can benefit from a reset. We know resetting your AC unit can be daunting for the first time. You, however, have nothing to worry about. We will give you all the details you need to perform an AC reset and why and when you should do it.

Why Would You Want to Reset Your AC Unit?

You may need to reset your AC unit to protect your circuit breaker when your AC system kicks in. This often happens after a power outage and helps prevent explosions or fires.

The second reason you may need to reset your air conditioner is when it is blowing warm air. There are several reasons your air conditioning unit could be blowing warm air even when you have the thermostat set on “cool”. One of those reasons could be a thermostat error that can be solved by a simple air conditioner reset. 

Resetting your air conditioning unit can be simple if you are familiar with it. It may be a simple DIY unlike in the AC low on freon issue that can only be solved professionally by certified HVAC technicians. 

However, sometimes, an AC reset will involve opening your condensing unit and other parts. This may, first, interfere with your warranty guidelines. We, therefore, ask you to comprehensively read your warranty guide before resetting your AC unit. Also, this may interfere with the functioning of your AC system. If you are unsure, please get in touch with HVAC Santa Clarita to facilitate your air conditioner reset.

If you are comfortable resetting your air conditioning system, follow the steps below.

How to Reset Your Air Conditioning System

If you are comfortable resetting your air conditioning unit, follow the steps below:

1. Shut down your AC system: Locate the circuit breaker box, then flip the breaker that powers your AC unit. Also, remember to switch off the power switch that connects your AC to the outside unit.
2. Locate the AC reset button: Most air conditioners come with a reset button. Many times, the buttons are red and small. If you seem not to find it, consult your guideline or user’s manual to locate it. Sometimes, the manufacturers of your AC may have all parts of your AC published online.
3. Hold down the reset button: Hold it in the same position for 3-5 seconds, and then release it.
4. Restore power supply to your AC: Do this by flipping on all the switches. Do not forget the breaker panel switch.
5. Restore power to your AC. Flip on all the switches, including the one in your breaker panel. 

Your air conditioner should be operational in the next few minutes. Ensure you set your thermostat at least 5 degrees lower than the actual room temperature.

Where Is the Reset Button on My Air Conditioner Located?

The AC reset button of most air conditioning units is often red and, therefore, easy to spot. Sometimes, it is on the condenser unit. You can press it and restart the unit if this is your situation.

If not, you may want to look for it on the exterior of the outdoor unit, especially along the bottom edge close to the ground.

However, if you don’t spot the reset button on the outside, it could be located inside the unit just behind the service panel. Before searching in the inside unit, cut off the power supply by switching off the circuit breaker.

What if you Don’t Have a Restart button on Your HVAC Unit?

Not all AC units come with reset buttons. If you have looked and you are sure that your system does not have one, follow the following steps to manually reset your unit:

1. Turn off the power connection to the condenser. This is typically located in the shutoff panel next to the unit.
2. Next, switch off the breaker in your circuit breaker box to cut off the power supply to the unit.
3. Then disconnect the system by unplugging it from the power supply board. This ensures that your AC system is receiving no power.
4. Wait for 20-30 minutes before plugging in the system.

If your systems do not work correctly after this reset process, you have dirty air filters or external power supply problems. Please call an HVAC technician to help diagnose your system in such a case.

When To Call for Emergency HVAC Services?

Many times, you will easily reset the AC unit on your own. However, while at it, you may notice an issue. Sometimes these issues are too dangerous for you to try and solve. In the situations we review below, you should contact your HVAC technician for local emergency AC repair. 

Let’s go!

Breaker Keeps Tripping

If you find out that your circuit breaker keeps tripping, that is a severe problem that needs an HVAC technician’s attention.

It is a sign of a serious problem. And you will notice that your AC unit cools more slowly when the breaker keeps tripping.

Also, another concern may lose connection or exposed wires. We recommend that you leave all connection issues for professionals to solve.

If you try to reset your air conditioner while experiencing this problem, you will likely cause a fire. The safest bet for you would call a professional to safely reset the AC and offer additional AC maintenance services.

Breaker Panel Cover Is Removed

Sometimes, you will notice that the circuit breaker panel’s cover is missing. If you notice this, do not touch any breakers. This is a large risk of electrocution(1). Call an HVAC technician to avoid exposing yourself to such fatal dangers.

Exposed Wires at Breaker Box

Before resetting your air conditioner, check that there are no exposed wires on your breaker box. If you notice exposed wires, it is time to call for AC repair.

Exposed wires can also cause electrocution if you try to fix them without the right expertise. Do not reset your AC until you have an HVAC technician go ahead.

How to Reset AC Unit Frequently Asked Questions

We answer a few questions on how to reset your central AC unit. We hope this helps you know what to do and when to call for repairs.

Let’s get right into them.

How Often Do You Reset Air Conditioner?

Resetting your AC is normal. However, if you find yourself restarting it more often, that signifies a bigger underlying problem. If you are in this situation, call for an HVAC technician. They will find out what the problem is and find solutions for you.

It is best to reset your AC after a power outage. If you need to restart your system more outside this, there is a reason to be suspicious.

And one reason you will need to restart your AC is when it is blowing warm air. If it blows warm air and you reset it and then it solves this issue, well and good for you. However, if you need this more frequently, it is a sign of:

• Clogged air filters,
• Faulty wiring
• Fan motor issues
• Compressor failure

These are issues that need professional intervention. Feel free to call us today.

What Happens When You Restart Your Air Conditioner?

Typically, after rebooting your AC unit, it will start blowing cold air usually. You should not feel the hot air coming from the vents unless there is a problem. You may have to wait for at least 5 minutes though. 

How do I Reset a Window Air Conditioner

Many window air conditioners do not have reset buttons. Therefore, you will need to unplug it to dissipate the electrical charge. Next, plug it in and turn on the circuit. After this reset, your AC should be fully operational again.

 Where do I shut my AC unit from?

The trick to finding your reset button is searching for the breaker box. Search for either a metal panel or box. Sometimes, it is painted to match the color of your house. However, it is common to find it in plain metal color.

Be sure to search in crawl places such as:

• the garage,
• laundry room,
• closets,
• the exterior of your house.

Final Thoughts on How to Reset an Air Conditioner Unit

There we go for our guide on how to reset your AC unit. If your AC unit is blowing hot air or after power outages, you can perform an air conditioner reset. If you are unsure or sense there is a problem, it is safe to call for professional help.

Following these simple steps can yield better performance for you. However, you may put yourself in danger of electrocution or messing up with your HVAC system. Be sure to read your guide or call us in case of an inquiry.

Sources

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/hvac-air-conditioner-problemsolving-tips-73337.html